Chiral photochemistry within natural and functionalized cyclodextrins: Chiral induction in photocyclization products from carbonyl compounds

Chiral induction in products resulting from hydrogen abstraction upon excitation of carbonyl compounds included in four cyclodextrin related host systems has been examined. The chiral induction obtained in photoproducts is moderate. Results suggest that there is potential to improve the asymmetric interaction between the reactant molecules and the supramolecular host cyclodextrins. However, no models that would help us to predict the outcome of chiral induction in a photochemical reaction have resulted from this investigation. Given the use of cyclodextrins as chiral stationary phases in HPLC and GC separations we are optimistic that there is considerable potential for cyclodextrins as chiral hosts in photoreactions.